Peacock Theatre Fish Bowl London: Theatre Reviews

There’s been a noticeable increase in the popularity of high-quality micro-ensemble and one-person plays lately. One show that’s really making waves is Fishbowl at Sadler’s Wells, offering a unique and intimate look at the chaos of everyday life between three quirky neighbors.

Fishbowl, originally titled Bigre in French, is a charming mix of physical theatre, slapstick, and French absurdism. This silent comedy, running for about an hour and a half, guarantees top-notch entertainment.

Created by Compagnie Le Fils du Grand Réseau and featuring the talents of Pierre Guillois, Agathe L’Huillier, and Olivier Martin-Salvan, Fishbowl tells the story of three neighbors in neighboring bedsits who form an unlikely friendship. While the show is mostly devoid of dialogue, the occasional mutter of “merde” and bursts of gibberish karaoke add to its quirky charm. It’s a perfect fit for the Sadler’s Wells Peacock Theatre.

The physical performances are incredibly detailed, with each character distinctly brought to life by the talented trio of performers. From exaggerated reactions to daily mishaps to intimate, unfiltered moments, Fishbowl offers a feast of delightful humor.

The set design by Laura Léonard adds another layer of personality, with each apartment reflecting the characters living in them – from a DIY-enthusiast to a neat freak to a chaos-inducing hoarder. The lighting design by Marie-Hélène Pinon and David Carreiras ensures that the story is always easy to follow, even amidst the chaos.

Fishbowl delivers a mix of choreographed dance numbers and hilarious moments that keep the audience entertained throughout. It’s a prime example of situational comedy done right – accessible, inventive, and definitely worth a watch.

In summary, Fishbowl at Sadler’s Wells is a delightful and engaging show that brings a fresh take on physical comedy and absurdism, leaving audiences in stitches and thoroughly entertained.